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Page 377
fully at this moment. Let it pass. In view of what I had to tell you two days ago, I have come to ask to fight near at hand to you."
"How kind of you," Ian said icily. "You know, I begin to think the threat you heard was some jest. So many ears have heard ithere are Leicester and Vesci and others, too, all asking to ride behind me. Surely if harm was intended me, a little more care would be taken to keep the secret. However, if you can find a place in the crowd of well-wishers, you are welcome."
With some satisfaction, Ian watched the expression that remark had brought to FitzWalter's face. It might well be that he had taken the heart from the king's plot with those few words. Besides, he noted with amusement, FitzWalter was not exactly finding a welcome. When the man turned to look for an opening, Sir Henry and Sir Walter nudged their horses a little closer to Ian's. Leicester's men also drew together, and the earl advanced a few steps, as if to say something to Ian, but he did not speak. FitzWalter moved off to Ian's left and found a place beyond Vesci's men.
Mild winter or not mild, Ian thought, glancing at the sun, it was getting cold sitting still without a cloak. He could feel his sore muscles tightening, and he watched with displeasure as Pembroke and Salisbury engaged in still another conference. Ian looked at the colors of the knight who had apparently raised a question. Devil take him, it was that young scapegrace Robert de Remy. Now what was he about? The decision was apparently negative, with some allowance. The young man said a word of thanks for the grace given and then turned his horse and galloped across to pull up before Ian.
"My lord," he said, "I have been to the heralds, but I am not allowed to change sides. I tried to see you last night, but your lady sent a message that you were engaged"
"A polite tale. I was abed groaning over my bruises,

 
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